How to build a landing with stairs?

EmmaHih

I would like to build a landing with stairs (see picture) for our side door. 900mm from the bottom of door to ground (soil.) What is the steps? Build a deck, attach stairs to it then do railings? Also any recommendations for what materials should I use? Thank you 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @EmmaHih. It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about building a landing with stairs.

The first step will be to design your landing, including the frame and how it will be supported. Since your door is 900mm above ground level, and you're effectively building a small elevated deck, you'll need to ensure it's solid and safe. Depending on the size of the landing you want, a good approach would be to install four posts concreted into the ground at the corners to support the frame. From there, you would build the frame using treated timber to create a strong platform.

Once the landing frame is secure and level, you can move onto building and attaching the stairs. You’ll need to work out the stair rise and run to make sure they are comfortable and safe to use — stair stringers can be bought pre-cut for common sizes, or you can custom-make them if needed.

After the stairs are installed, you would then move on to fitting the handrails a bottom rail and balustrades, which are important for safety on a structure like this. Because this is an elevated landing and will need to comply with building regulations, it would be a good idea to enlist the help of a professional either for the build itself or at least to check your plans before you start, to make sure everything meets construction codes.

For materials, I'd suggest using H3 treated pine or H4 for any parts in contact with the ground. For decking boards, pine, hardwood or composite decking would be good choices.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell